And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man who was blind from his birth. And his disciples asked him, saying, Teacher, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind? Jesus answered, Neither has this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him. I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night comes, when no man can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world. When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay, And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing.
(John 9:1-7)
Have you ever asked a dumb question?
The disciples didn't know it, but they did here. The question seems a good one, for our sense of justice tells us that no one is punished by God without reason. Surely someone was being punished here; the man was born blind. Was it possible for him to sin before birth (and what could he have done?) Perhaps it was his parents—but where is the justice in punishing the child?
We forget, of course, that the blind man was not entitled even to existence. Is it better to be born blind, or not at all? But in this instance, Jesus tells us, there was a great purpose at hand. God had prepared this man for a specific time. Why, then, did Jesus do this?
First, so that we might know that God's purposes are high above ours—but that in all those purposes, his love for us is entirely sure.
Next, so that we might see the visible signs of Christ's work, for we need more than words. If by this example one is saved, then what do those years of blindness count?
Third, that the Pharisees once again be exposed—and silenced as the hypocrites they were.
And note, please, how Jesus does this. He heals the blind on several occasions, but here he uses a physical thing—clay—and tells the man to wash. The creator once again takes up the stuff of which man is made—the dust of the ground and the breath of God.
This shows us (like Namaan the leper) the virtue of simple obedience. The blind man asks no questions, but obeys.
It is also a sign for us; we see more clearly when something physical occurs.
Then, almost as if it were an incidental thought, Jesus tells us that He is the light of the world. It seems unrelated to the story, but it is not. The man is blind; therefore, whatever sins might be committed by sight are foreign to him—and he knows it. He cannot have the lust of the eyes; it is impossible. Turn the case around: those who say they can see are responsible for what they look at. A blind man flipping through the pages of a pornographic magazine is innocent. Those who can see bear the guilt. It is so with all sin: those who say they see (or understand) bear the guilt. Those who see and deny their guilt are hypocrites.
Tuesday, June 30, 2015
Monday, June 29, 2015
Growth of the Kingdom
Then said he, Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and to what shall I compare it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and cast into his garden; and it grew, and became a great tree; and the fowls of the air lodged in the branches of it. And again he said, To what shall I liken the kingdom of God?
(Luk 13:18-20)
It is possible to understand these parables in many ways; here are but two.
The growth of the church
There are two key characteristics of the mustard seed:
It is small, but the plant grows to be the largest of herbs in the gardens of that time. So it is with the church. It began with those few men on Pentecost but soon exploded to change the entire known world. Why did God choose this method? So that you might know that it was not the power of those few which made this happen, but the hand of God.
Mustard is also rather pungent. It is very visible. In short, you notice it. The ancients used it medicinally (remember mustard plasters?) - which may signify the role the church has in being the moral lighthouse of the world.
The leaven also has two characteristics:
The New International says the woman "mixed" the leaven into the flour; the actual Greek means "hid." The church is hidden in the world—for we are in the world but not of the world. Christians are not identified by having three eyes.
The leaven changes the dough into more leaven. So the church grows by changing those of the world into those of Christ.
The growth of the Christian
Like the mustard seed, a Christian's faith usually begins in a small way, and grows slowly but surely.
Eventually, if the Christian perseveres to the end, that faith will become the purpose of his entire life, permeating the whole man.
Like the mustard plant, the Christian starts small but grows to be someone who will support others and shelter others.
And like mustard, the character of the Christian is evident to all, either for admiration or as a reminder of their wickedness.
Lessons
The leaven is inward growth; the mustard, outward. Is your inward spiritual life growing? Is prayer sweet and reading the Scripture profitable? Is your outward life growing? Do those around you know you as one who is ready to help?
(Luk 13:18-20)
It is possible to understand these parables in many ways; here are but two.
The growth of the church
There are two key characteristics of the mustard seed:
It is small, but the plant grows to be the largest of herbs in the gardens of that time. So it is with the church. It began with those few men on Pentecost but soon exploded to change the entire known world. Why did God choose this method? So that you might know that it was not the power of those few which made this happen, but the hand of God.
Mustard is also rather pungent. It is very visible. In short, you notice it. The ancients used it medicinally (remember mustard plasters?) - which may signify the role the church has in being the moral lighthouse of the world.
The leaven also has two characteristics:
The New International says the woman "mixed" the leaven into the flour; the actual Greek means "hid." The church is hidden in the world—for we are in the world but not of the world. Christians are not identified by having three eyes.
The leaven changes the dough into more leaven. So the church grows by changing those of the world into those of Christ.
The growth of the Christian
Like the mustard seed, a Christian's faith usually begins in a small way, and grows slowly but surely.
Eventually, if the Christian perseveres to the end, that faith will become the purpose of his entire life, permeating the whole man.
Like the mustard plant, the Christian starts small but grows to be someone who will support others and shelter others.
And like mustard, the character of the Christian is evident to all, either for admiration or as a reminder of their wickedness.
Lessons
The leaven is inward growth; the mustard, outward. Is your inward spiritual life growing? Is prayer sweet and reading the Scripture profitable? Is your outward life growing? Do those around you know you as one who is ready to help?
Sunday, June 28, 2015
One Look From the LORD!
"And the LORD looked upon him, and said, Go in this thy might, and thou shalt save Israel from the hand of the Midianites: have not I sent thee?" (Jdg_6:14)
What a look was that which the LORD gave to Gideon! He looked him out of his discouragement into a holy bravery. If our look to the LORD saves us, what will not His look at us do? LORD, look on me this day and nerve me for its duties and conflicts.
What a word was this which Jehovah spoke to Gideon! "Go." He must not hesitate. He might have answered, "What, go in all this weakness?" But the LORD put that word out of court by saying, "Go in this thy might." The LORD had looked might into him, and he had now nothing to do but to use it and save Israel by smiting the Midianites. It may be that the LORD has more to do by me than I ever dreamed of. If He has looked upon me, He has made me strong. Let me by faith exercise the power with which He has entrusted me. He never bids me "idle away my time in this my might." Far from it. I must "go" because He strengthens me. What a question is that which the LORD puts to me even as He put it to Gideon! "Have not I sent thee!" Yes, LORD, Thou hast sent me, and I will go in Thy strength. At Thy command I go, and, going, I am assured that Thou wilt conquer by me.
What a look was that which the LORD gave to Gideon! He looked him out of his discouragement into a holy bravery. If our look to the LORD saves us, what will not His look at us do? LORD, look on me this day and nerve me for its duties and conflicts.
What a word was this which Jehovah spoke to Gideon! "Go." He must not hesitate. He might have answered, "What, go in all this weakness?" But the LORD put that word out of court by saying, "Go in this thy might." The LORD had looked might into him, and he had now nothing to do but to use it and save Israel by smiting the Midianites. It may be that the LORD has more to do by me than I ever dreamed of. If He has looked upon me, He has made me strong. Let me by faith exercise the power with which He has entrusted me. He never bids me "idle away my time in this my might." Far from it. I must "go" because He strengthens me. What a question is that which the LORD puts to me even as He put it to Gideon! "Have not I sent thee!" Yes, LORD, Thou hast sent me, and I will go in Thy strength. At Thy command I go, and, going, I am assured that Thou wilt conquer by me.
Saturday, June 27, 2015
The Fig Tree
Luke 13:6-9
(6) He spoke also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none.
(7) Then said he unto the vinedresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbers it the ground?
(8) And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and fertilize it:
(9) And if it bears fruit, well: and if not, then after that you shall cut it down.
The fig tree is generally known to be the symbol of Israel. So when Jesus began to talk about it, his audience would quickly understand he was speaking about them. Its use shows us two things about how God treats his people:
Christ as intercessor
The man who took care of the vineyard—a picture of Christ, who is the one through whom all things were made—begs one more year. This is a model for us of the intercession Christ makes for us to the Father. He is the one who keeps the righteous wrath of God held back "for one more year." But note, too, what he does: he gives that fruit tree special treatment. It should serve as a warning to us when Christ makes it look easy to be fruitful for God—especially if we decline the effort to do so. It could very well be that one last year.
The fate of this fig tree brings us two lessons:
Perhaps this bothers you. Would God really rip the tree from the ground? Would he destroy your church? We can learn from history's example. The Jewish nation, in AD 70, was destroyed by the Romans, and scattered throughout the Gentile world. Their history since has been one of misery. This does not condone those by whom the misery has come. But it should serve as an example to any church too busy being "righteous" to be fruitful.
(6) He spoke also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none.
(7) Then said he unto the vinedresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbers it the ground?
(8) And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and fertilize it:
(9) And if it bears fruit, well: and if not, then after that you shall cut it down.
The fig tree is generally known to be the symbol of Israel. So when Jesus began to talk about it, his audience would quickly understand he was speaking about them. Its use shows us two things about how God treats his people:
- This fig tree was in "the vineyard." That meant that it had been specifically planted in the most fertile of soil—given special treatment, so to speak. Certainly this was true of Israel, planted in the Promised Land, flowing with milk and honey.
- The measure of the tree is the fruit. If you want the measure of a nation in God's eyes, look for the fruits of righteousness and justice.
Christ as intercessor
The man who took care of the vineyard—a picture of Christ, who is the one through whom all things were made—begs one more year. This is a model for us of the intercession Christ makes for us to the Father. He is the one who keeps the righteous wrath of God held back "for one more year." But note, too, what he does: he gives that fruit tree special treatment. It should serve as a warning to us when Christ makes it look easy to be fruitful for God—especially if we decline the effort to do so. It could very well be that one last year.
The fate of this fig tree brings us two lessons:
- God's patience is great—but he will not hold his hand forever. All of us die; a church that refuses to be fruitful will be plucked up. This is final.
- Moreover, God has other vines—the tree is in the midst of the vineyard. In Israel's case, this meant the Gentile nations. In our case, it is all those other churches and Christians on whom God can call for faithful service.
Perhaps this bothers you. Would God really rip the tree from the ground? Would he destroy your church? We can learn from history's example. The Jewish nation, in AD 70, was destroyed by the Romans, and scattered throughout the Gentile world. Their history since has been one of misery. This does not condone those by whom the misery has come. But it should serve as an example to any church too busy being "righteous" to be fruitful.
Friday, June 26, 2015
Day Of The Locust
"What the locust swarm has left the great locusts have eaten; what the great locusts have left the young locusts have eaten; what the young locusts have left other locusts have eaten"
Joel 1: 4
Natural disasters in Israel and Judah were typically viewed in the Old Testament as God's judgments. Joel raised an important question for us to answer: what should our response to personal disasters be?
Background
Locusts. Throughout recorded history Africa and the Middle East have been plagued by swarms of these grasshopper-like flying insects. Even in the 1900s swarms so great that they blocked out the sun have been reported. When a flying swarm of millions upon millions of insects lands, they eat every green plant, leaving the land utterly desolate. Even worse, they often lay eggs before they move on, and just as new plants begin to sprout locust larvae attack the recovering vegetation. For a people like the ancient Israelites, whose livelihood depended on agriculture, a locust plague threatened existence itself. Just such an invasion of flying locusts, far worse than any in living memory (Joel 1:2-3), devastated Judah in Joel's day.The prophet interpreted that event as a divine judgment, and called on the people of Judah to repent. But even more, the utter devastation caused by the locusts stimulated a prophetic vision of devastation to be caused by invading armies at history's end, when the Day of the Lord finally comes.
Overview
A locust swarm that devastated Judah (Joel 1:1-12) moved Joel to utter a call for national repentance (Joel 1:13-20). The disaster prefigured the "Day of the Lord" (Joel 2:1-11), and made return to God urgent (Joel 2:12-17). Yet when that day comes God will save His people, and bless them afterward (Joel 2:18-32). God will judge hostile nations then (Joel 3:1-16), and Judah will know God's pardon (Joel 3:17-21).Understanding the Text
"Has anything like this happened in your days?" Joel 1:1-4 It's typical of folks today to think that things "just happen." A personal tragedy is only "bad luck" that "could have happened to anyone."
The same attitude was all too typical among some in ancient Judah. But when an enormous swarm of locusts devastated Judah, the Prophet Joel cried out, "Think!"
This is the force of his question, "Has anything like this ever happened in your days or in the days of your forefathers?" Sometimes things happen that are so terrible we can't dismiss them as mere chance.
Underlying Joel's cry was the conviction that God is in control of events in this world. When disaster strikes, an appropriate response is not to shrug and say, "Bad luck," but to examine our hearts, and to see if perhaps God is crying out for our attention.v "Wake up, you drunkards, and weep!" Joel 1:5-12 There's nothing so frustrating to a parent as indifference. You try to reach your kids, you confront, discipline, even yell. And rather than repentance, or even rebellion, there's simply the shrug of a shoulder and a muttered, "Oh, well."
That's what frustrated Joel and the Lord about Judah's response to the locust plague. They didn't cry out. They didn't make a fuss. They just sat around drinking their wine, shrugging their shoulders, and saying, "Oh, well."
How does God want us to respond when we are disciplined? First of all we need to wake up and weep! (v. 5) Discipline is designed to get our attention and to turn us back to the Lord, not just to make us hurt. Waking up and weeping is often the first indication that we've begun to pay attention to God's message.
The prophet added more verbs to portray an appropriate reaction to divine discipline. We mourn (v. 8). We feel a sense of despair and grief (v. 11). These emotions are not pleasant, but they are profitable. They show that we're taking events to heart. A godly sorrow, according to the New Testament, can lead us to repentance (2 Cor. 7:10).
"Put on sackcloth, O priests, and mourn" Joel 1:13-20. Joel called on the religious leaders of his day to serve as examples of how to respond to the national disaster. They were to first personally put on sackcloth—rough garments worn to indicate grief and sorrow—and spend the night in prayer (v. 13). Then they were to utter a call for a national day of prayer, when all would appeal to the Lord (v. 14). As terrible as the locust plague had been, it was only a preview of the terrors of the approaching Day of the Lord.
Clearly the clergy of Joel's day failed to interpret the locust plague correctly. They themselves did not repent and they called for no national return to the Lord.
What happens when the clergy are insensitive to the Lord? Just after the locust plague, God raised up another messenger, Joel, who was sensitive to Him! You and I needn't wait for clergy to take the lead when our own hearts are grieved, or when we feel a burden for our land. What we do need to do is take the situation to heart and express our own grief and sorrow to the Lord. Then, like Joel, we need to speak out!
"For the Day of the Lord is coming" Joel 2:1-11. The phrase, "Day of the Lord," is a technical term in biblical literature. It can be used to describe any time when God acts directly in history. But it's primary reference in prophecy is to events destined to take place in the years just preceding history's end.
Those years are both dark and bright. They are dark in that they introduce a time of worldwide tribulation, and especially a devastating invasion of Israel that causes intense suffering for the Jewish people. They are bright because they end with the surviving remnant of Israel restored to intimate relationship with God, and endlessly blessed by Him.
Here however Joel focuses our attention on the dark face of the Day of the Lord. He sees it as "a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and blackness" (v. 2). An invading army, like the locust plague, would leave the land a waste and overrun every defense. Most awful of all, Joel pictured God on the side of the invaders (v. 11), using them as His instrument to punish His own people. No wonder Joel cried, "The Day of the Lord is great; it is dreadful. Who can endure it?" (v. 11)
All such Old Testament passages remind humankind that God has fixed a day for final judgment. And that judgment day is rapidly approaching. Yet no matter how vivid the images of its terrors, most humans remain indifferent. Most of us simply don't want to deal with uncomfortable things until we have to.
What Joel was telling Judah was that God's time for them was just around the corner of tomorrow. And the moment to deal with that very real and present danger had come! This is what the Gospel tells us too. Each individual must face God the Judge, and the time to make peace with God is now, not then! Why wait to welcome Christ into our lives and receive His forgiveness? Tomorrow may be too late.
"Even now... return to Me with all your heart" Joel 2:12-17. Joel's message to Judah was the same as Jesus Christ's message to us today. It's not too late. "Even now" reminds us that as long as it is called "today," a person can turn to God and find pardon.
Joel, however, warned Judah that God is not interested in any superficial religious experience. It's not raising a hand, or walking down an aisle, or promising to give up drink. Joel said, "Rend your heart and not your garments" (v. 13). In biblical times people often tore their clothing to express grief or sorrow. Joel cried that any turning to the Lord must be heartfelt and real.
What can we expect if we truly turn to God? We can expect Him to act in character! He will welcome us, "For He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love" (v. 13).
"The Lord will... take pity on His people" Joel 2:18-27. The generation that lives at history's end will repent at last. What is destined for them is an illustration of what you and I can expect when we turn to the Lord.
First, God will provide for us, meeting our basic needs (v. 19). Second, God will save us from our enemies (vv. 20-21). Third, He will pour out so many blessings that the hard times we have experienced will seem nothing in comparison—we will be fully repaid (v. 25). Seeing God's hand in all this, we will praise and bless the Lord, for we will know by experience that God is present, and that He is our God (vv. 26-27).
"Afterward, I will pour out My Spirit" Joel 2:28-32. The primary focus of this promise is on the aftermath of the Day of the Lord. God will then bless all Israel, from child to adult, by pouring out His Spirit on everyone.
In Old Testament times the Spirit was given to equip a believer for some specific task or ministry. Now Joel foresaw a time when the Spirit will be poured out on all Israel and Judah. That event, after the judgments of the Day of the Lord, will be linked at history's end with various signs in the heavens and on earth.
But how, if Joel viewed the outpouring of the Spirit as something destined for Israel, and located it at history's end, could Peter explain events of the Day of Pentecost as "what was spoken by the Prophet Joel"? (Acts 2:16)
In the same way that the locust plague foreshadowed the ultimate Day of the Lord, so events at Pentecost foreshadowed the ultimate outpouring of the Spirit. Today you and I possess, with Jesus, the gift of the Holy Spirit. With and in Him we have a rich taste of the ultimate blessing to be given all by our loving God.
"I will gather all nations" Joel 3:1-16. The picture of the end given in Joel harmonizes with the picture found in other Old Testament prophets. God will stir up mankind's natural hostility toward Him and His people. Those who have been enemies of the Lord's chosen people will again invade. God will let them come, a great horde, and then, when they seem about to triumph, the Lord will judge the nations on every side.
"The mountains will drip new wine" Joel 3:17-21. The little Book of Joel closes with the promise of blessedness. The enemies of Israel and Judah will be punished, the people of God will again be holy, and God's pardoned people will live forever in His presence.
The journey we are on may be long and hard. But our destination is glorious.
Devotional:
The Years the Locusts Have Eaten
(Joel 2)
Joel's warning to Judah of the coming Day of the Lord challenged God's people to repent and turn to God for healing. The chapter presupposes a people who have turned away from God, and who need to "return to Me with all your heart" (v. 12). There had been years of devastation. But Joel promised even God's rebellious people that the Lord has good in mind for them. Despite years of devastation, it is within the power of a loving. God's promise to "repay you for the years the locusts have eaten" can be claimed even by those who never departed from Him, and whose suffering was something other than punishment for sin.
Personal Application
Hold on to God's promise to repay, no matter however long your suffering lasts.
Quotable
"My Good Shepherd, who has shown Your very gentle mercy to us unworthy sinners in various physical pains and sufferings, give grace and strength to me, Your little lamb, that in no tribulation or anguish or pain may I turn away from You."—Francis of Assisi
Wednesday, June 24, 2015
Fire on Earth
Luke 12:49-53
(49) I am come to send fire on the earth; and would that it were already kindled?
(50) But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I constrained till it be accomplished!
(51) Suppose you that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division:
(52) For from now on there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three.
(53) The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law, and the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.
How is it, the reader may ask, that the Prince of Peace can speak of kindling a fire on earth, creating division in families? Surely he wants us to be at peace within our families?
The matter is relatively straightforward, and we need to review it once in while.
To be a Christian is to separate yourself from the world. If you act like every other worldly person, I would seriously question your faith.
That separation—it is called holiness—carries with it an intense hatred for sin, for sin cost the life of our Savior. That attitude towards sin must be balanced with a love for the sinner (but the world usually won't make that distinction).
It also carries with it the fear of—and obedience to—God. It changes what we do and how we do it, for we now are out to please Him, not ourselves.
That results is a powerful witness. The world can ignore changed words; it cannot ignore changed lives.
That right living, powerfully portrayed in us, forces a decision upon everyone who sees it. Either they are attracted or repelled; there are no "neutrals" in this war.
The fire is kindled by the existence of the tinder of sin and the blaze of righteousness and faith. The choice must be made.
Love must be balanced with wisdom. It must be arranged properly. My God tells me to love my wife; my wife should not be allowed to tell me not to love my God. The right order produces peace; the wrong order produces chaos.
This, of course, can be a great trial. I am not suggesting that it is trivial; I am stating that it is not optional.
Can we have peace without righteousness? Certainly! It goes by the name of oppression. For if the force is great enough, all enemies can be overborne. That's the world's way. We need not think of abortion, homosexuality and adultery as "sin" - just "alternate lifestyles, choice and `improving your marriage'." That's the world's view. But notice what happens when righteousness is seen! That is why the politically correct are so desperate to silence the church! That is why the oppression has begun.
The fire of God is kindled, and is spreading. The blood of martyrs is the seed of the church, and we will soon know this truth again.
(49) I am come to send fire on the earth; and would that it were already kindled?
(50) But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I constrained till it be accomplished!
(51) Suppose you that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division:
(52) For from now on there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three.
(53) The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law, and the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.
How is it, the reader may ask, that the Prince of Peace can speak of kindling a fire on earth, creating division in families? Surely he wants us to be at peace within our families?
The matter is relatively straightforward, and we need to review it once in while.
To be a Christian is to separate yourself from the world. If you act like every other worldly person, I would seriously question your faith.
That separation—it is called holiness—carries with it an intense hatred for sin, for sin cost the life of our Savior. That attitude towards sin must be balanced with a love for the sinner (but the world usually won't make that distinction).
It also carries with it the fear of—and obedience to—God. It changes what we do and how we do it, for we now are out to please Him, not ourselves.
That results is a powerful witness. The world can ignore changed words; it cannot ignore changed lives.
That right living, powerfully portrayed in us, forces a decision upon everyone who sees it. Either they are attracted or repelled; there are no "neutrals" in this war.
The fire is kindled by the existence of the tinder of sin and the blaze of righteousness and faith. The choice must be made.
Love must be balanced with wisdom. It must be arranged properly. My God tells me to love my wife; my wife should not be allowed to tell me not to love my God. The right order produces peace; the wrong order produces chaos.
This, of course, can be a great trial. I am not suggesting that it is trivial; I am stating that it is not optional.
Can we have peace without righteousness? Certainly! It goes by the name of oppression. For if the force is great enough, all enemies can be overborne. That's the world's way. We need not think of abortion, homosexuality and adultery as "sin" - just "alternate lifestyles, choice and `improving your marriage'." That's the world's view. But notice what happens when righteousness is seen! That is why the politically correct are so desperate to silence the church! That is why the oppression has begun.
The fire of God is kindled, and is spreading. The blood of martyrs is the seed of the church, and we will soon know this truth again.
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
The Enemy Frustrated
"Therefore thus saith the LORD concerning the king of Assyria, He shall not come into this city, nor shoot an arrow there, nor come before it with shield, nor cast a bank against it" (2 King 19:32)
Neither did Sennacherib molest the city. He had boasted loudly, but he could not carry out his threats. The LORD is able to stop the enemies of His people in the very act. When the lion has the lamb between his jaws, the great Shepherd of the sheep can rob him of his prey. Our extremity only provides an opportunity for a grander display of divine power and wisdom.
In the case before us, the terrible foe did not put in an appearance before the city which he thirsted to destroy. No annoying arrow could he shoot over the walls, and no besieging engines could he put to work to batter down the castles, and no banks could he cast up to shut in the inhabitants. Perhaps in our case also the LORD will prevent our adversaries from doing us the least harm. Certainly He can alter their intentions or render their designs so abortive that they will gladly forego them. Let us trust in the LORD and keep His way, and He will take care of us. Yea, He will fill us with wondering praise as we see the perfection of His deliverance.
Let us not fear the enemy till he actually comes, and then let us trust in the LORD.
Neither did Sennacherib molest the city. He had boasted loudly, but he could not carry out his threats. The LORD is able to stop the enemies of His people in the very act. When the lion has the lamb between his jaws, the great Shepherd of the sheep can rob him of his prey. Our extremity only provides an opportunity for a grander display of divine power and wisdom.
In the case before us, the terrible foe did not put in an appearance before the city which he thirsted to destroy. No annoying arrow could he shoot over the walls, and no besieging engines could he put to work to batter down the castles, and no banks could he cast up to shut in the inhabitants. Perhaps in our case also the LORD will prevent our adversaries from doing us the least harm. Certainly He can alter their intentions or render their designs so abortive that they will gladly forego them. Let us trust in the LORD and keep His way, and He will take care of us. Yea, He will fill us with wondering praise as we see the perfection of His deliverance.
Let us not fear the enemy till he actually comes, and then let us trust in the LORD.
Monday, June 22, 2015
He With Us; We With Him
"The fear of the LORD prolongeth days: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened" (Pro_10:27)
There is no doubt about it. The fear of the LORD leads to virtuous habits, and these prevent that waste of life which comes of sin and vice. The holy rest which springs out of faith in the LORD Jesus also greatly helps a man when he is ill. Every physician rejoices to have a patient whose mind is fully at ease. Worry kills, but confidence in God is like healing medicine.
We have therefore all the arrangements for long life, and if it be really for our good, we shall see a good old age and come to our graves as shocks of corn in their season. Let us not be overcome with sudden expectation of death the moment we have a fingerache, but let us rather expect that we may have to work on through a considerable length of days.
And what if we should soon be called to the higher sphere? Certainly there would be nothing to deplore in such a summons but everything to rejoice in. Living or dying we are the LORD's. If we live, Jesus will be with us; if we die, we shall be with Jesus.
The truest lengthening of life is to live while we live, wasting no time but using every hour for the highest ends. So be it this day.
There is no doubt about it. The fear of the LORD leads to virtuous habits, and these prevent that waste of life which comes of sin and vice. The holy rest which springs out of faith in the LORD Jesus also greatly helps a man when he is ill. Every physician rejoices to have a patient whose mind is fully at ease. Worry kills, but confidence in God is like healing medicine.
We have therefore all the arrangements for long life, and if it be really for our good, we shall see a good old age and come to our graves as shocks of corn in their season. Let us not be overcome with sudden expectation of death the moment we have a fingerache, but let us rather expect that we may have to work on through a considerable length of days.
And what if we should soon be called to the higher sphere? Certainly there would be nothing to deplore in such a summons but everything to rejoice in. Living or dying we are the LORD's. If we live, Jesus will be with us; if we die, we shall be with Jesus.
The truest lengthening of life is to live while we live, wasting no time but using every hour for the highest ends. So be it this day.
Thursday, June 18, 2015
God Himself Shall Work
"Now will I rise, saith the LORD; now will I be exalted; now will I lift up Myself" (Isa_33:10)
When the spoilers had made the land as waste as if devoured by locusts, and the warriors who had defended the country sat down and wept like women, then the LORD came to the rescue. When travelers ceased from the roads to Zion, and Bashan and Carmel were as vineyards from which the fruit has failed, then the LORD arose. God is exalted in the midst of an afflicted people, for they seek His face and trust Him. He is still more exalted when in answer to their cries He lifts up Himself to deliver them and overthrow their enemies.
Is it a day of sorrow with us? Let us expect to see the LORD glorified in our deliverance. Are we drawn out in fervent prayer? Do we cry day and night unto Him? Then the set time for His grace is near. God will lift up Himself at the right season. He will arise when it will be most for the display of His glory. We wish for His glory more than we long for our own deliverance. Let the LORD be exalted, and our chief desire is obtained.
LORD, help us in such a way that we may see that Thou Thyself art working. May we magnify Thee in our inmost souls. Make all around us to see how good and great a God Thou art.
When the spoilers had made the land as waste as if devoured by locusts, and the warriors who had defended the country sat down and wept like women, then the LORD came to the rescue. When travelers ceased from the roads to Zion, and Bashan and Carmel were as vineyards from which the fruit has failed, then the LORD arose. God is exalted in the midst of an afflicted people, for they seek His face and trust Him. He is still more exalted when in answer to their cries He lifts up Himself to deliver them and overthrow their enemies.
Is it a day of sorrow with us? Let us expect to see the LORD glorified in our deliverance. Are we drawn out in fervent prayer? Do we cry day and night unto Him? Then the set time for His grace is near. God will lift up Himself at the right season. He will arise when it will be most for the display of His glory. We wish for His glory more than we long for our own deliverance. Let the LORD be exalted, and our chief desire is obtained.
LORD, help us in such a way that we may see that Thou Thyself art working. May we magnify Thee in our inmost souls. Make all around us to see how good and great a God Thou art.
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
Our Field of Battle
"For the LORD your God is He that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you" (Deu_20:4)
We have no enemies but the enemies of God. Our fights are not against men but against spiritual wickednesses. We war with the devil, and the blasphemy, and error, and despair, which he brings into the field of battle. We fight with all the armies of sin -- impurity, drunkenness, oppression, infidelity, and ungodliness. With these we contend earnestly, but not with sword or spear; the weapons of our warfare are not carnal.
Jehovah, our God, abhors everything which is evil, and, therefore, He goeth with us to fight for us in this crusade. He will save us, and He will give us grace to war a good warfare, and win the victory. We may depend upon it that if we are on God's side God is on our side. With such an august ally the conflict is never in the least degree doubtful. It is not that truth is mighty and must prevail, but that might lies with the Father who is almighty, with Jesus who has all power in heaven and in earth, and with the Holy Spirit who worketh His will among men.
Soldiers of Christ, gird on your armor. Strike home in the name of the God of holiness, and by faith grasp His salvation. Let not this day pass without striking a blow for Jesus and holiness.
We have no enemies but the enemies of God. Our fights are not against men but against spiritual wickednesses. We war with the devil, and the blasphemy, and error, and despair, which he brings into the field of battle. We fight with all the armies of sin -- impurity, drunkenness, oppression, infidelity, and ungodliness. With these we contend earnestly, but not with sword or spear; the weapons of our warfare are not carnal.
Jehovah, our God, abhors everything which is evil, and, therefore, He goeth with us to fight for us in this crusade. He will save us, and He will give us grace to war a good warfare, and win the victory. We may depend upon it that if we are on God's side God is on our side. With such an august ally the conflict is never in the least degree doubtful. It is not that truth is mighty and must prevail, but that might lies with the Father who is almighty, with Jesus who has all power in heaven and in earth, and with the Holy Spirit who worketh His will among men.
Soldiers of Christ, gird on your armor. Strike home in the name of the God of holiness, and by faith grasp His salvation. Let not this day pass without striking a blow for Jesus and holiness.
Sunday, June 14, 2015
He Constantly Abides
"For the LORD will not forsake His people for His great name's sake; because it hath pleased the LORD to make you His people" (1Sa_12:22)
God's choice of His people is the reason for His abiding by them and not forsaking them. He chose them for His love, and He loves them for His choice. His own good pleasure is the source of their election, and His election is the reason for the continuance of His pleasure in them. It would dishonor His great name for Him to forsake them, since it would either show that He made an error in His choice or that He was fickle in His love. God's love has this glory, that it never changes, and this glory He will never tarnish.
By all the memories of the LORD's former lovingkindnesses let us rest assured that He will not forsake us. He who has gone so far as to make us His people will not undo the creation of His grace. He has not wrought such wonders for us that He might leave us after all. His Son Jesus has died for us, and we may be sure that He has not died in vain. Can He forsake those for whom He shed His blood? Because He has hitherto taken pleasure in choosing and in saving us, it will be His pleasure still to bless us. Our LORD Jesus is no changeable lover. Having loved His own, He loves them to the end.
God's choice of His people is the reason for His abiding by them and not forsaking them. He chose them for His love, and He loves them for His choice. His own good pleasure is the source of their election, and His election is the reason for the continuance of His pleasure in them. It would dishonor His great name for Him to forsake them, since it would either show that He made an error in His choice or that He was fickle in His love. God's love has this glory, that it never changes, and this glory He will never tarnish.
By all the memories of the LORD's former lovingkindnesses let us rest assured that He will not forsake us. He who has gone so far as to make us His people will not undo the creation of His grace. He has not wrought such wonders for us that He might leave us after all. His Son Jesus has died for us, and we may be sure that He has not died in vain. Can He forsake those for whom He shed His blood? Because He has hitherto taken pleasure in choosing and in saving us, it will be His pleasure still to bless us. Our LORD Jesus is no changeable lover. Having loved His own, He loves them to the end.
Thursday, June 11, 2015
No Cause to Blush
"Fear not; for thou shalt not be ashamed" (Isa_54:4)
We shall not be ashamed of our faith. Carping critics may assail the Scriptures upon which we ground our belief, but every year the LORD will make it more and more clear that in His Book there is no error, no excess, and no omission. It is no discredit to be a simple believer; the faith which looks alone to Jesus is a crown of honor on any man's head and better than a star on his breast.
We shall not be ashamed of our hope. It shall be even as the LORD has said. We shall be fed, led, blest, and rested. Our LORD will come, and then the days of our mourning shall be ended. How we shall glory in the LORD who first gave us lively hope and then gave us that which we hoped for!
We shall not be ashamed of our love. Jesus is to us the altogether lovely, and never, never, shall we have to blush because we have yielded our hearts to Him. The sight of our glorious Well-beloved will justify the most enthusiastic attachment to Him. None will blame the martyrs for dying for Him.
When the enemies of Christ are clothed with everlasting contempt, the lovers of Jesus shall find themselves honored by all holy beings, because they chose the reproach of Christ rather than the treasures of Egypt.
We shall not be ashamed of our faith. Carping critics may assail the Scriptures upon which we ground our belief, but every year the LORD will make it more and more clear that in His Book there is no error, no excess, and no omission. It is no discredit to be a simple believer; the faith which looks alone to Jesus is a crown of honor on any man's head and better than a star on his breast.
We shall not be ashamed of our hope. It shall be even as the LORD has said. We shall be fed, led, blest, and rested. Our LORD will come, and then the days of our mourning shall be ended. How we shall glory in the LORD who first gave us lively hope and then gave us that which we hoped for!
We shall not be ashamed of our love. Jesus is to us the altogether lovely, and never, never, shall we have to blush because we have yielded our hearts to Him. The sight of our glorious Well-beloved will justify the most enthusiastic attachment to Him. None will blame the martyrs for dying for Him.
When the enemies of Christ are clothed with everlasting contempt, the lovers of Jesus shall find themselves honored by all holy beings, because they chose the reproach of Christ rather than the treasures of Egypt.
Wednesday, June 10, 2015
A Shepherd Secures Them
They shall feed and lie down, and none shall make them afraid" (Zep_3:13)
Yesterday we thought of the afflicted and poor people whom the LORD left to be a living seed in a dead world. The prophet says of such that they shall not work iniquity nor speak lies. So that while they had neither rank nor riches to guard them, they were also quite unable to use those weapons in which the wicked place so much reliance: they could neither defend themselves by sin nor by subtlety.
What then? Would they be destroyed? By no means! They should both feed and rest and be not merely free from danger but even quiet from fear of evil. Sheep are very feeble creatures, and wolves are terrible enemies; yet at this hour sheep are more numerous than wolves, and the cause of the sheep is always winning, while the cause of the wolves is always declining. One day flocks of sheep will cover the plains, and not a wolf will be left. The fact is that sheep have a Shepherd, and this gives them provender, protection, and peace. "None" -- which means not one, whether in human or diabolical form -- "shall make them afraid." Who shall terrify the LORD's flock when He is near? We lie down in green pastures, for Jesus Himself is food and rest to our souls.
Yesterday we thought of the afflicted and poor people whom the LORD left to be a living seed in a dead world. The prophet says of such that they shall not work iniquity nor speak lies. So that while they had neither rank nor riches to guard them, they were also quite unable to use those weapons in which the wicked place so much reliance: they could neither defend themselves by sin nor by subtlety.
What then? Would they be destroyed? By no means! They should both feed and rest and be not merely free from danger but even quiet from fear of evil. Sheep are very feeble creatures, and wolves are terrible enemies; yet at this hour sheep are more numerous than wolves, and the cause of the sheep is always winning, while the cause of the wolves is always declining. One day flocks of sheep will cover the plains, and not a wolf will be left. The fact is that sheep have a Shepherd, and this gives them provender, protection, and peace. "None" -- which means not one, whether in human or diabolical form -- "shall make them afraid." Who shall terrify the LORD's flock when He is near? We lie down in green pastures, for Jesus Himself is food and rest to our souls.
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
A Trustworthy Name
"I will also leave in the midst of thee an afflicted and poor people, and they shall trust in the Name of the LORD" (Zep_3:12)
When true religion is ready to die out among the wealthy it finds a home among the poor of this world, rich in faith. The LORD has even now His faithful remnant. Am I one of them?
Perhaps it is because men are afflicted and poor that they learn to trust in the name of the LORD. He that hath no money must try what he can do on trust. He whose own name is good for nothing in his own esteem, acts wisely to rest in another name, even that best of names, the name of Jehovah. God will always have a trusting people, and these will be an afflicted and poor people. Little as the world thinks of them, their being left in the midst of a nation is the channel of untold blessings to it. Here we have the conserving salt which keeps in check the corruption which is in the world through lust.
Again the question comes home to each one of us. Am I one of them? Am I afflicted by the sin within me and around me? Am I poor in spirit, poor spiritually in my own judgment? Do I trust in the LORD? This is the main business. Jesus reveals the name, the character, the person of God; am I trusting in Him? If so, I am left in this world for a purpose. LORD, help me to fulfill it.
When true religion is ready to die out among the wealthy it finds a home among the poor of this world, rich in faith. The LORD has even now His faithful remnant. Am I one of them?
Perhaps it is because men are afflicted and poor that they learn to trust in the name of the LORD. He that hath no money must try what he can do on trust. He whose own name is good for nothing in his own esteem, acts wisely to rest in another name, even that best of names, the name of Jehovah. God will always have a trusting people, and these will be an afflicted and poor people. Little as the world thinks of them, their being left in the midst of a nation is the channel of untold blessings to it. Here we have the conserving salt which keeps in check the corruption which is in the world through lust.
Again the question comes home to each one of us. Am I one of them? Am I afflicted by the sin within me and around me? Am I poor in spirit, poor spiritually in my own judgment? Do I trust in the LORD? This is the main business. Jesus reveals the name, the character, the person of God; am I trusting in Him? If so, I am left in this world for a purpose. LORD, help me to fulfill it.
Monday, June 8, 2015
Wisdom for the Asking
"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him" (Jam_1:5)
If any of you lack wisdom. There is no "if" in the matter, for I am sure I lack it. What do I know? How can I guide my own way? How can I direct others? LORD, I am a mass of folly, and wisdom I have none.
Thou sayest, "Let him ask of God." LORD, I now ask. Here at Thy footstool I ask to be furnished with heavenly wisdom for this day's perplexities, ay, and for this day's simplicities; for I know I may do very stupid things, even in plain matters, unless Thou dost keep me out of mischief.
I thank Thee that all I have to do is to ask. What grace is this on Thy part, that I have only to pray in faith and Thou wilt give me wisdom. Thou dost here promise me a liberal education, and that, too, without an angry tutor or a scolding usher. This, too, Thou wilt bestow without a fee -- bestow it on a fool who lacks wisdom. O LORD, I thank Thee for that positive and expressive word "It shall be given him." I believe it. Thou wilt this day make Thy babe to know the hidden wisdom which the carnally prudent never learn. Thou wilt guide me with Thy counsel and afterwards receive me to glory.
If any of you lack wisdom. There is no "if" in the matter, for I am sure I lack it. What do I know? How can I guide my own way? How can I direct others? LORD, I am a mass of folly, and wisdom I have none.
Thou sayest, "Let him ask of God." LORD, I now ask. Here at Thy footstool I ask to be furnished with heavenly wisdom for this day's perplexities, ay, and for this day's simplicities; for I know I may do very stupid things, even in plain matters, unless Thou dost keep me out of mischief.
I thank Thee that all I have to do is to ask. What grace is this on Thy part, that I have only to pray in faith and Thou wilt give me wisdom. Thou dost here promise me a liberal education, and that, too, without an angry tutor or a scolding usher. This, too, Thou wilt bestow without a fee -- bestow it on a fool who lacks wisdom. O LORD, I thank Thee for that positive and expressive word "It shall be given him." I believe it. Thou wilt this day make Thy babe to know the hidden wisdom which the carnally prudent never learn. Thou wilt guide me with Thy counsel and afterwards receive me to glory.
Sunday, June 7, 2015
I AM
Then answered the Jews, and said unto him, Say we not well that you are a Samaritan, and have a demon?
Jesus answered, I have not a demon; but I honor my Father, and you do dishonor me.
And I seek not my own glory: there is one that seeks and judges.
Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keeps my saying, he shall never see death.
Then said the Jews unto him, Now we know that you have a demon. Abraham is dead, and the prophets; and you say, If a man keeps my saying, he shall never taste of death.
Are you greater than our father Abraham, who is dead? and the prophets are dead: whom make you yourself?
Jesus answered, If I honor myself, my honor is nothing: it is my Father that honors me; of whom you say, that he is your God:
Yet you have not known him; but I know him: and if I should say, I know him not, I shall be a liar like unto you: but I know him, and keep his saying.
Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad.
Then said the Jews unto him, You are not yet fifty years old, and have you seen Abraham?
Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.
Then took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by.
This passage is the end of a bitter argument between Jesus and the Pharisees. It is interesting for several reasons:
Unlike all others with whom Jesus debates, these men claim to be the authorities on God. Jesus says they're wrong, taking God's name in vain, hypocrites—and does so sternly. To no other sinners does Jesus react like this.
The argument does not wander about—Jesus leads them by degrees to his ultimate statement: "I AM."
Is it not curious how some will not see? Like Pharaoh in Egypt, their hearts are continually hardened.
Unlike the gentle Lord of forgiveness, you can see here that Jesus is the one escalating the argument. He's the one who's forcing them to deal with his claims.
Just what are those claims?
He very clearly implies that he is superior to the common victor over mankind: death. If you keep his commandments you will not see death, he says. That he is referring to the second death at his return is not clear—but his power over death is definitely claimed here.
He says that God the Father glorifies him. No one is superior to God; how then could God glorify this Jesus?
He also says that he knows God the Father—personally, if you will—and keeps his commandments. In other words, he is sinless, perfect.
He ends the argument with the stunning statement that before Abraham was (meaning, came into being) "I AM." It is the name of God, given to Moses. It is the statement that only God can make. It is a clear claim: this Jesus of Nazareth is claiming to be none other than God Almighty.
Many today think of "gentle Jesus" as the good teacher, the fellow who said some marvelous things, but otherwise just a man. You cannot read this section and come anywhere close to that conclusion. As C. S. Lewis once put it, he is either liar, lunatic or Lord. If one of the first two, he should be cast into the dustbin of history. Man has often tried to toss him there, but it seems the dustbin just isn't big enough to hold him. The choice is not optional: just who do you say that Jesus is?
Saturday, June 6, 2015
He Always Listens
"The LORD hath heard my supplication; the LORD will receive my prayer" (Psa_6:9)
The experience here recorded is mine. I can set to my seal that God is true. In very wonderful ways He has answered the prayers of His servant many and many a time. Yes, and He is hearing my present supplication, and He is not turning away His ear from me. Blessed be His holy name!
What then? Why, for certain the promise which lies sleeping in the psalmist's believing confidence is also mine. Let me grasp it by the hand of faith: "The LORD will receive my prayer." He will accept it, think of it, and grant it in the way and time which His loving wisdom judges to be best. I bring my poor prayer in my hand to the great King, and He gives me audience and graciously receives my petition. My enemies will not listen to me, but my LORD will. They ridicule my tearful prayers, but my LORD does not; He receives my prayer into His ear and His heart.
What a reception this is for a poor sinner! We receive Jesus, and then the LORD receives us and our prayers for His Son's sake. Blessed be that dear name which franks our prayers so that they freely pass even within the golden gates. LORD, teach me to pray, since Thou hearest my prayers.
The experience here recorded is mine. I can set to my seal that God is true. In very wonderful ways He has answered the prayers of His servant many and many a time. Yes, and He is hearing my present supplication, and He is not turning away His ear from me. Blessed be His holy name!
What then? Why, for certain the promise which lies sleeping in the psalmist's believing confidence is also mine. Let me grasp it by the hand of faith: "The LORD will receive my prayer." He will accept it, think of it, and grant it in the way and time which His loving wisdom judges to be best. I bring my poor prayer in my hand to the great King, and He gives me audience and graciously receives my petition. My enemies will not listen to me, but my LORD will. They ridicule my tearful prayers, but my LORD does not; He receives my prayer into His ear and His heart.
What a reception this is for a poor sinner! We receive Jesus, and then the LORD receives us and our prayers for His Son's sake. Blessed be that dear name which franks our prayers so that they freely pass even within the golden gates. LORD, teach me to pray, since Thou hearest my prayers.
Friday, June 5, 2015
Is There a Difference?
But against any of the children of Israel shall not a dog move his tongue, against man or beast: that ye may know how that the LORD doth put a difference between the Egyptians and Israel" (Exo_11:7)
What! Has God power over the tongues of dogs! Can he keep ours from barking? Yes, it is even so. He can prevent an Egyptian dog from worrying one of the lambs of Israel's flock. Doth God silence dogs, and doggish ones among men, and the great dog at hell's gate? Then let us move on our way without fear.
If He lets dogs move their tongues, yet He can stop their teeth. They may make a dreadful noise and still do us no real harm. Yet, how sweet is quiet! How delightful to move about among enemies and perceive that God maketh them to be at peace with us! Like Daniel in the den of lions we are unhurt amid destroyers.
Oh, that today this word of the LORD to Israel might be true to me! Does the dog worry me? I will tell my LORD about him. LORD, he does not care for my pleadings; do Thou speak the word of power, and he must lie down. Give me peace, O my God, and let me see Thy hand so distinctly in it that I may most clearly perceive the difference which Thy grace has made between me and the ungodly!
Exceedingly Precious
"They shall be Mine, saith the LORD of hosts in that day when I make up My jewels" (Mal_3:17)
A day is coming in which the crown jewels of our great King shall be counted, that it may be seen whether they answer to the inventory which His Father gave Him. My soul, wilt thou be among the precious things of Jesus? Thou art precious to Him if He is precious to thee, and thou shalt be His "in that day," if He is thine in this day.
In the days of Malachi, the chosen of the LORD were accustomed so to converse with each other that their God Himself listened to their talk. He liked it so well that He took notes of it; yes, and made a book of it, which He lodged in His record office. Pleased with their conversation, He was also pleased with them. Pause, my soul, and ask thyself: If Jesus were to listen to thy talk would He be pleased with it? Is it to His glory and to the edification of the brotherhood? Say, my soul, and be sure thou sayest the truth.
But what will the honor be for us poor creatures to be reckoned by the LORD to be His crown jewels! This honor have all the saints. Jesus not only says, "They are mine," but, "They shall be mine." He bought us, sought us, brought us in, and has so far wrought us to His image that we shall be fought for by Him with all His might.
A day is coming in which the crown jewels of our great King shall be counted, that it may be seen whether they answer to the inventory which His Father gave Him. My soul, wilt thou be among the precious things of Jesus? Thou art precious to Him if He is precious to thee, and thou shalt be His "in that day," if He is thine in this day.
In the days of Malachi, the chosen of the LORD were accustomed so to converse with each other that their God Himself listened to their talk. He liked it so well that He took notes of it; yes, and made a book of it, which He lodged in His record office. Pleased with their conversation, He was also pleased with them. Pause, my soul, and ask thyself: If Jesus were to listen to thy talk would He be pleased with it? Is it to His glory and to the edification of the brotherhood? Say, my soul, and be sure thou sayest the truth.
But what will the honor be for us poor creatures to be reckoned by the LORD to be His crown jewels! This honor have all the saints. Jesus not only says, "They are mine," but, "They shall be mine." He bought us, sought us, brought us in, and has so far wrought us to His image that we shall be fought for by Him with all His might.
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
Sure-footedness
The LORD God is my strength, and He will make my feet like hind's feet, and He will make me to walk upon mine high places" (Hab_3:19)
This confidence of the man of God is tantamount to a promise, for that which faith is persuaded of is the purpose of God. The prophet had to traverse the deep places of poverty and famine, but he went down hill without slipping, for the LORD gave him standing. By and by he was called to the high places of the hills of conflict; and he was no more afraid to go up than to go down.
See! The LORD lent him strength. Nay, Jehovah Himself was his strength. Think of that: the almighty God Himself becomes our strength!
Note that the LORD also gave him sure-footedness. The hinds leap over rock and crag, never missing their footholds. Our LORD will give us grace to follow the most difficult paths of duty without a stumble. He can fit our foot for the crags so that we shall be at home where apart from God we should perish.
One of these days we shall be called to higher places still. Up yonder we shall climb, even to the mount of God, the high places where the shining ones are gathered. Oh, what feet are the feet of faith, by which, following the Hind of the Morning, we shall ascend into the hill of the LORD!
This confidence of the man of God is tantamount to a promise, for that which faith is persuaded of is the purpose of God. The prophet had to traverse the deep places of poverty and famine, but he went down hill without slipping, for the LORD gave him standing. By and by he was called to the high places of the hills of conflict; and he was no more afraid to go up than to go down.
See! The LORD lent him strength. Nay, Jehovah Himself was his strength. Think of that: the almighty God Himself becomes our strength!
Note that the LORD also gave him sure-footedness. The hinds leap over rock and crag, never missing their footholds. Our LORD will give us grace to follow the most difficult paths of duty without a stumble. He can fit our foot for the crags so that we shall be at home where apart from God we should perish.
One of these days we shall be called to higher places still. Up yonder we shall climb, even to the mount of God, the high places where the shining ones are gathered. Oh, what feet are the feet of faith, by which, following the Hind of the Morning, we shall ascend into the hill of the LORD!
Tuesday, June 2, 2015
Immediate Freedom
"For now will I break his yoke from off thee, and will burst thy bonds in sunder" (Nah_1:13)
The Assyrian was allowed for a season to oppress the LORD's people, but there came a time for his power to be broken. So, many a heart is held in bondage by Satan and frets sorely under the yoke. Oh, that to such prisoners of hope the word of the LORD may come at once, according to the text, "Now will I break his yoke from off thee, and will burst thy bonds in sunder!"
See! The LORD promises a present deliverance. "Now will I break his yoke from off thee." Believe for immediate freedom, and according to thy faith so shall it be unto thee at this very hour. When God saith "now," let no man say "tomorrow."
See how complete the rescue is to be; for the yoke is not to be removed but broken; and the bonds are not to be untied but burst asunder. Here is a display of divine force which guarantees that the oppressor shall not return. His yoke is broken, we cannot again be bowed down by its weight. His bonds, are burst asunder, they can no longer hold us. Oh, to believe in Jesus for complete and everlasting emancipation! "If the Son shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed." Come, LORD, and set free Thy captives, according to Thy Word.
The Assyrian was allowed for a season to oppress the LORD's people, but there came a time for his power to be broken. So, many a heart is held in bondage by Satan and frets sorely under the yoke. Oh, that to such prisoners of hope the word of the LORD may come at once, according to the text, "Now will I break his yoke from off thee, and will burst thy bonds in sunder!"
See! The LORD promises a present deliverance. "Now will I break his yoke from off thee." Believe for immediate freedom, and according to thy faith so shall it be unto thee at this very hour. When God saith "now," let no man say "tomorrow."
See how complete the rescue is to be; for the yoke is not to be removed but broken; and the bonds are not to be untied but burst asunder. Here is a display of divine force which guarantees that the oppressor shall not return. His yoke is broken, we cannot again be bowed down by its weight. His bonds, are burst asunder, they can no longer hold us. Oh, to believe in Jesus for complete and everlasting emancipation! "If the Son shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed." Come, LORD, and set free Thy captives, according to Thy Word.
Monday, June 1, 2015
God's Promise Keeps
"Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days" (Ecc_11:1)
We must not expect to see an immediate reward for all the good we do; nor must we always confine our efforts to places and persons which seem likely to yield us a recompense for our labors. The Egyptian casts his seed upon the waters of the Nile, where it might seem a sheer waste of corn. But in due time the flood subsides, the rice or other grain sinks into the fertile mud, and rapidly a harvest is produced. Let us today do good to the unthankful and the evil. Let us teach the careless and the obstinate. Unlikely waters may cover hopeful soil. Nowhere shall our labor be in vain in the LORD.
It is ours to cast our bread upon the waters; it remains with God to fulfill the promise "Thou shalt find it." He will not let His promise fail. His good word which we have spoken shall live, shall be found, shall be found by us. Perhaps not just yet, but some day we shall reap what we have sown. We must exercise our patience, or perhaps the LORD may exercise it. "After many days," says the Scripture, and in many instances those days run into months and years, and yet the Word stands true. God's promise will keep; let us mind that we keep the precept and keep it this day.
We must not expect to see an immediate reward for all the good we do; nor must we always confine our efforts to places and persons which seem likely to yield us a recompense for our labors. The Egyptian casts his seed upon the waters of the Nile, where it might seem a sheer waste of corn. But in due time the flood subsides, the rice or other grain sinks into the fertile mud, and rapidly a harvest is produced. Let us today do good to the unthankful and the evil. Let us teach the careless and the obstinate. Unlikely waters may cover hopeful soil. Nowhere shall our labor be in vain in the LORD.
It is ours to cast our bread upon the waters; it remains with God to fulfill the promise "Thou shalt find it." He will not let His promise fail. His good word which we have spoken shall live, shall be found, shall be found by us. Perhaps not just yet, but some day we shall reap what we have sown. We must exercise our patience, or perhaps the LORD may exercise it. "After many days," says the Scripture, and in many instances those days run into months and years, and yet the Word stands true. God's promise will keep; let us mind that we keep the precept and keep it this day.
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